Best areas to stay in Taipei

For travelers planning a journey to Taipei, selecting the ideal area to stay can shape the experience of the city. In 2025, Taipei stands as a vibrant urban hub teeming with life, culture, and history, providing diverse neighborhoods to meet the varied preferences of visitors. Whether you’re captivated by historical sites, shopping, world-renowned street food, or luxuriant hot springs, Taipei’s neighborhoods offer distinct advantages. This guide explores the best areas to stay in Taipei, highlighting the unique character and appeal of each district, to help visitors make the most informed choices for an unforgettable stay.

A Convenient Stay: Around Taipei Main Station

In the heart of Taipei lies Taipei Main Station, a bustling nexus for public transportation that caters particularly well to travelers seeking ultra-convenience. This area isn’t just a transit hub but a vibrant district filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities. With access to the regular train (TRC), high-speed rail (HSR), MRT’s red and blue lines, Airport MRT, and intercity buses, staying around Taipei Main Station ensures that the entire city and beyond are at your fingertips.

For those planning day trips to popular destinations such as the Taroko Gorge or Alishan, this location’s transit accessibility makes it an ideal choice. Additionally, attractions like the Ximending shopping area and National Taiwan Museum, famous for its dinosaur display, are within a comfortable walking distance. A short stroll will also bring you to the peaceful grounds of 2-28 Peace Park and the historic North Gate.

Accommodation Around Taipei Main Station

Visitors seeking budget-friendly accommodations will appreciate the selection of hostels and mid-range hotels around Taipei Main Station that cater to different needs. Star Hostel Taipei Main offers a clean and friendly environment with its bright common room and wide range of private room options, making it a favorite among travelers. Those looking for something closer to the station may consider Old Door Hostel and Bar, known for its welcoming environment and proximity to Taipei City Mall.

• 🎒 Star Hostel Taipei Main: Bright, friendly, private options
• 🍺 Old Door Hostel and Bar: Closer to transport, small bar
• 🛏️ APause Inn: Small rooms, includes breakfast, budget-friendly
• 🌟 CityInn Hotel Branch III: New, colorful, cozy near the station

For those keen on splurging, the Palais de Chine Hotel provides a luxurious experience with its Michelin-starred dining. However, consider other areas like Eastern Taipei near Taipei 101 for more upscale options. In short, Taipei Main Station offers a convenient location with attractions and amenities suitable for backpackers and business travelers alike.

Culture and Shopping in Zhongxiao East Road

For travelers with a penchant for shopping and dining, the Zhongxiao East Road area is a bustling and energetic district teeming with life. This area runs parallel to the MRT Blue Line, making it a prime location for those wanting to stay connected while indulging in Taipei’s vibrant shopping culture. With a dazzling array of luxury boutiques, budget-friendly shops, and an eclectic culinary scene, Zhongxiao East offers an exciting blend of experiences.

Notable city attractions like Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and Songshan Cultural Park are within reach, providing cultural depth to the shopping spree. The delightful Dunnan Eslite bookstore and buzzing Huashan 1914 Creative Park further enrich the district’s appeal by offering literary and creative indulgences.

Accommodation in Zhongxiao East Road

The area offers a variety of accommodations from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Star Hostel Taipei East, a popular choice among travelers, provides comfortable and modern stays with exclusive female dormitories and private rooms for a more intimate experience. The ArTree Hotel, while not directly on Zhongxiao East Road, offers a whimsical design accentuating nature and technology, promising a unique stay just north of the district.

🛏️ Hotel Name	🏷️ Price Range	📍 Location
🎨 ArTree Hotel	$$	Near Taipei Arena MRT
🌟 Kimpton Da An Taipei	$$$	Near Zhongxiao Dunhua MRT
🏨 Eastin Taipei Hotel	$	Zhongxiao Dunhua MRT area

Whether you’re indulging in a retail extravaganza or savoring a culinary journey, Zhongxiao East Road offers an ideal balance of shopping, dining, and cultural engagement, making it a top choice for both tourists and locals.

Explore History and Night Markets in Dadaocheng

For those enchanted by history and culture, Dadaocheng offers a window into Taipei’s past. As Taipei’s oldest neighborhood, it hosts a charming blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. The neighborhood, with its rich historical roots, brims with traditional teahouses, vibrant temples, and quaint shops housed in colonial-era buildings. A walk along Dihua Street provides a glimpse into Taipei’s trading history, making it a worthwhile area to explore.

Dadaocheng’s close proximity to the Ningxia Night Market—a feast for the senses with its incredible street food—ensures that culinary adventures await every visitor. The district is also known for its craft beer bars, offering a laid-back vibe where visitors can mingle and unwind.

Accommodation in Dadaocheng

Accommodation choices in Dadaocheng emphasize historical charm. OrigInn Space delivers an authentic experience with its vintage furnishings and history-rich environment. For budget-conscious travelers, We Come Hostel provides both dormitory-style and private room options, blending comfort with affordability. Guests choose this destination to immerse themselves in a culturally rich and atmospheric stay.

🏨 Accommodation	💰 Price Range	🏺 Features
🏛️ OrigInn Space	$$	Vintage decor, historical
👥 We Come Hostel	$	Diverse room options, budget-friendly
🏨 Jianshan Hotel	$	Authentic atmosphere

Visitors who relish history and appreciate art will find Dadaocheng an excellent hub for explorations, ensuring a memorable stay interlaced with cultural discovery and culinary delights.

Lush Retreats Around Da’an Park

Da’an Park and its surrounding area stand as a tranquil oasis in bustling Taipei. Often likened to New York’s Central Park, Da’an Park offers a spacious green escape for relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. The area around Da’an District is known for its international academic vibe, boasting numerous universities, making it a lively place filled with students and an ever-evolving café culture.

Yongkang Street is a key highlight, a haven for food lovers seeking legendary Taiwanese dishes like mango shaved ice and the globally renowned Din Tai Fung. The region’s relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere provides families and leisurely travelers with a deeply engaging Taipei experience.

Accommodation Around Da’an Park

The accommodation around Da’an Park caters primarily to those who appreciate a balance of city life and relaxation. Dandy Hotel provides sweeping park views, welcoming guests in a stylish setting complemented by free stroller services for families. Dongmen 3 Hostel is another hit, offering extensive privacy with its expansive capsules in a cozy environment.

• 🌳 Dandy Hotel: Park views, family-friendly, modern design
• 🎒 Dongmen 3 Hostel: Capsule privacy, close to Yongkang Street
• 🎨 Fullon Hotel Taipei: Rooftop pool, near Jade Market

Being near Da’an Park presents visitors an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds: serene green spaces where leisure flourishes and a bustling area filled with local culture and culinary delights.

Relaxation and Luxury in Beitou Hot Springs

If restorative retreats are what you seek, Beitou Hot Springs offers a luxurious getaway right in Taipei. This serene area, well known for its renowned hot spring resorts, lets travelers immerse themselves in therapeutic relaxation while enjoying panoramic mountain views. Originally developed by the Japanese, Beitou retains much of its historical charm, blending cultural site visits with soothing natural landscapes.

Beitou might not be the most convenient location for those planning to explore all corners of Taipei, but for hot spring enthusiasts or weekend tourists escaping the city’s hustle, it presents a perfect opportunity to unwind in elegant comfort.

Accommodation in Beitou Hot Springs

While visitors may expect higher prices in the Beitou area, options like Chyuan Du Spring Resort provide a mix of affordability and luxury. The esteemed Villa 32, on the other hand, provides a 5-star experience with exclusive access to private hot springs, catering specifically to a luxurious audience seeking sophistication and relaxation.

🏨 Resort	💰 Price Range	♨️ Features
🥢 Chyuan Du Spring Resort	$$	Private sauna, Wii rentals
🏯 Villa 32	$$$$	Exclusive access, serene luxury
🌸 Asia Pacific Hotel Beitou	$$$$	Family-friendly, exquisite service

For a luxurious and serene stay, Beitou serves as the ideal location, perfectly balancing modern comfort with historical elegance, offering both rejuvenation and cultural richness.

FAQ

• Q: What are the top attractions near Taipei Main Station?
  A: Key attractions include Ximending shopping, National Taiwan Museum, 2-28 Peace Park, and North Gate. Easy MRT access allows exploring further across Taipei.
• Q: Which area is best for first-time visitors to Taipei?
  A: Staying near Ximending offers lively streets and easy access to public transport, making it an excellent choice for newcomers.
• Q: Are there upscale shopping options in Taipei?
  A: Yes, Zhongxiao East Road is known for luxury boutiques and a vibrant shopping scene.
• Q: Is Beitou suitable for short stays?
  A: Beitou is great for relaxation and hot springs but less convenient for wider city exploration. Ideal for those seeking a luxurious retreat.
• Q: What’s unique about Dadaocheng?
  A: Dadaocheng offers rich historical charm, colonial architecture, and proximity to the vibrant Ningxia Night Market.